justia-lawyer-rating-595022058-1-
Logo
faqs-img
logo
image

Darien DCF Investigation for Leaving Child Alone in the Car

Many parents have been in situations where they’ve thought that leaving their child in the car to attend a brief appointment or quickly walk into a store may have be harmless.  Unfortunately, acting accordingly in these situations can lead to a phone call to the police—even when the child is only alone momentarily.

In addition to possible criminal charges being pursued against the parent, there is also the potential for Department of Children and Families (DCF) involvement. A Darien DCF investigation for leaving a child alone in the car can have a significant impact on your life and your legal parental rights.  Let a skilled attorney advise you on the best way to protect yourself following these allegations.

The Risks of Leaving a Child in a Parked Car

While there are serious safety risks that come with leaving a child in a car during certain parts of the year, it is not uncommon for someone to call the police even when a child is in no danger whatsoever. This can lead to a DCF investigation, no matter the time of year.

There are also potential criminal charges that can result from this situation. While criminal charges are entirely independent of a DCF case, they frequently stem from the same incidents. In fact, a DCF investigation could ultimately lead to a recommendation of criminal charges if the allegations are substantiated by DCF.

Parents have the right to fight back against both of these proceedings. Whether or not an arrest occurs, there can still be intrusive DCF investigations, where these state authorities force parents into accepting stringent supervision and other harsh consequences. An attorney can work to resolve these issues to prevent these state authorities from getting to that point of intrusion.

Are These Cases Worth Fighting?

A Darien DCF investigation into leaving a child alone in a car is separate from a criminal investigation, which means that for purposes of DCF,  it will not result in being arrested or jailed.  However, the consequences are still serious enough that it is vital to fight back. A bad outcome can damage your reputation and significantly impact your ability to raise your children as you see fit.

Challenging these results can reduce the chances of DCF imposing ongoing services or substantiating findings. With the help of an attorney, it may be possible to push back on these allegations and establish that there were no acts of neglect or abuse.

What if Neglect or Abuse Allegations Are Substantiated?

It is one thing to face a DCF investigation in Darien for leaving a child alone in the car. It is another to have DCF to substantiate those allegations of neglect. While a substantiation can have a tremendous impact on a family, it is possible to appeal this decision.

An appeal gives a parent the chance to offer their side of the story. During an appeal process, DCF will have the opportunity to admit documents as evidence and call witnesses to testify. During this process, your attorney will be able to cross-examine each witness and challenge DCF’s allegations of neglect.  Your attorney will also have the opportunity to offer their own evidence.

Talk to a Lawyer in Darien About DCF Investigations Over Leaving a Child in a Car

Regardless of the nature of the allegations against you, there is an opportunity to rely on experienced legal counsel to clear your name. Your side of the story matters and deserves to be told.  Having your truth heard can be invaluable during a Darien DCF investigation over leaving a child in a car. Reach out to Mark Sherman Law as soon as possible for a confidential consultation to discuss your case. Read some of the 300+ verified reviews from past clients on our Avvo.com profile by clicking here.

Client Reviews

★★★★★
★★★★★

I found Mark Sherman after doing an extensive search for DCF attorneys on the internet. He is without a doubt the most honest and straightforward attorney I have ever met. Rather than trying to push us towards an expensive engagement...

- Robert E
Submit a Law Firm Client Review